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In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Domestic Violence is not taken lightly. The Kingdom has made strides in raising awareness about domestic violence and has enacted laws that aim to protect victims and punish those responsible. The pinnacle of these efforts was the enactment of the 'Protection from Abuse' law in 2013. This statute provides legal protection for victims of Domestic Violence and sanctions serious penalties for the perpetrators. The law covers both physical and psychological abuse and provides resources and support for the victims.
Domestic violence cases can be complex and emotionally draining. A lawyer can help navigate the legal intricacies, offer counsel, and ensure your rights are protected. You may need a lawyer if you are a victim looking to press charges, seeking a protection order, or needing to terminate a marriage or custody agreement because of abuse. Lawyers can also assist those falsely accused of domestic violence in disproving allegations and limiting legal consequences.
Under the 'Protection from Abuse' law, domestic violence in Riyadh can result in fines up to 50,000 Saudi riyal and a year-long jail sentence. The law defines abuse as any form of exploitation, harm, or emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or threat of it from one family member to another. The law also makes it a crime to fail to report incidents of Domestic Violence. Lastly, violating a protection order can culminate in severe punishment, enhancing the importance of these protective tools.
Domestic Violence ranges from physical harm like hitting, slapping, or kicking to emotional and psychological abuse, which involves intimidation, threats, humiliation, or other forms of emotional manipulation. Even economic control, like withholding access to money, is regarded as a form of abuse.
Victims or witnesses can report incidents of domestic violence to the police or via the national call center for domestic violence reporting. Failing to report known cases of domestic violence is a crime under Saudi law.
Once reported, a case of domestic violence is appropriately investigated. If the claims are substantiated, the abuser can be fined and imprisoned. The victims can also be given a protective order, shelter, or medical and psychological treatment as required.
Yes, the 'Protection from Abuse' law covers everyone residing in Saudi Arabia, regardless of their nationality or citizenship status.
A protective order is a legal injunction that restricts the abuser from causing further harm or coming close to the victim and can be issued by a court or the public prosecution.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development oversees domestic violence matters and operates homes for abuse victims. Other initiatives like the National Family Safety Program (NFSP) work towards creating awareness about domestic violence and providing support to the victims. The 'Child Help' line 116111 supports children dealing with violence.
If you are in a situation where you need legal assistance due to domestic violence, it's crucial to get help immediately. It is advisable first to reach safety, then report the incident to the appropriate authorities, and finally seek legal counsel. Lawyers experienced in domestic violence cases can help guide you through the legal system and ensure your rights are protected.
